Learning new concepts, meeting new people, and beginning your journey towards a fulfilling career can make college an extremely rewarding experience. But college can also be a time of stress and uncertainty; tests, assignments, and trying to manage study time can put a lot of pressure on students. For mature students, that stress is often multiplied by added responsibilities like a family, a full-time job, or both.
Fortunately, there are ways to manage stress so that your college experience doesn’t feel draining. Read on to find out what those stress-busting tips are and how they can help you get to the career you’ve always wanted.
1. Break Down Tasks Into Manageable Chunks
A mature student graduating from a nursing program in BC might feel stressed by upcoming tests. They might also have several other important tasks to juggle at the same time – like extra hours at work – that can add even more pressure.
Breaking up tasks can help ease some of that pressure. If you’re worried about tackling a difficult course or a stressful test, try breaking up that end goal into smaller goals that are easier to mark down in your schedule. Break down a test into different chapters you need to study, and then set milestones for yourself. The rush of satisfaction you’ll get from reaching those goals will help boost your confidence and keep you feeling in control of your schedule.
2. Find Creative Ways to Add Exercise to Your Routine
Exercise is a great way to relieve stress. It pumps up your happy hormone levels, and helps relieve tension. But for all of exercise’s benefits, it takes up time. And for busy students juggling many things at once, time is a precious resource.
Instead of buying an expensive gym membership or signing up for a jogging group that will add even more pressure on your already tight schedule, why not try YouTube exercise videos? They’re free, easy to find, and you can do them from the comfort of your home. You can even use quick ten-minute exercise sessions as a nice study break! That way you’ll maximize the time you have while feeling healthier and relaxed.
3. Do the Kinds of Activities you Find Relaxing
People don’t always find the same things relaxing, and so it’s important to prioritize the kinds of activities that leave you feeling the most rejuvenated.
For example, if you’re completing online gerontology training and spend much of your studying time alone, then you might benefit from going out and catching up with friends. Talking about your feelings or venting any frustrations can help you channel your energy and leave you feeling refreshed.
On the other hand, you might find social situations nice but too draining during a stressful exam period. If you’re an introvert, then budgeting in alone time might be just what you need. Consider staying in and taking a bubble bath, or cozying up with your favourite book instead.
Whether you’re completing your mental health and addictions diploma, or taking online educational assistant courses, being a mature student is both challenging and rewarding. With the right approach, those challenges will fill you with excitement, leaving stress behind in the dust.
What other tricks do you use to ward off stress?
